Cute small castle with french garden and nice views to the river and downtown. Entrance not well signaled. You need to enter - one big medieval stair - to know prices and all.

Castelo de Chaves Type: castle/museum Time spent: 30-40 min. Parking: available Bike parking: not available Path for disabled: not available Price: 1 EUR Local tradition states, that around 1160 the brothers Rui and Garcia Lopes, knights of D. Afonso Henriques, conquered Chaves for the Portuguese Crown. For this feat, they would have been rewarded by the sovereign with the domains of the town and its castle. The bodies of the brothers are buried in the Church of Santa Maria Maior. Some authors state that the construction of this keep was a response to the construction of Monterey Castle, on the opposite side of the border, in the kingdom of Galicia. The castle would return to action during the Restoration Period, and its defenses were modernized, and adapted to then-modern artillery fire. To this end, between 1658 and 1662 the town's lower walls were rebuilt.

Ig - @oursceneos Perched on a high vantage point overlooking the city, the medieval castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Adjacent to the castle lies a beautifully landscaped garden, perfect for leisurely strolls, and a well-preserved fortress from the modern era, adding layers of historical richness to the experience. As one of the city's top tourist attractions, this area invites visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of history while enjoying the serene beauty of its surroundings. Whether you're an avid history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the castle and its surroundings promise a memorable and enriching visit.

Castle quite compact. A military museum as they seem to be. Very reasonable admission and you have access to the roof for the views. In the town so easy to get to

It's more of a tower than a full-on castle. Inside however is a nice little military museum going up several flights with eventual access to the roof area, giving great panoramic vies of Chaves. Museum good value at 1e per person.

Small but interesting town with great little cafes and bars. Plenty of free parking very close by.

Lovely little castle. 1€ per adult 50c per teenager. Some interesting weapons and uniforms on display over 3 floors. At the top you can access the castle roof and look out over Chaves.

Ig: @oursceneos Epigraphy provides valuable insights into the diverse peoples who once inhabited the region of Aquae Flaviae, a former Roman municipality that served as the regional capital of the ancient Conventus Bracaraugustanus and later the Province of Gallaecia. These inscriptions offer a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural fabric of this important historical area. The remnants of these ancient writings, carved in stone, reveal the rich mosaic of ethnicities and communities that coexisted in Aquae Flaviae, painting a vivid picture of life during the Roman Empire. Whether marking significant events, honoring notable figures, or commemorating local traditions, these epigraphic records are a testament to the region’s vibrant past. Exploring these inscriptions not only allows one to step back in time but also deepens the understanding of how Aquae Flaviae played a pivotal role in the broader structure of Roman administration and its transition into the later periods of Gallaecia. Visitors and scholars alike are drawn to these relics of antiquity, as they continue to offer endless discoveries about the lives, beliefs, and governance of those who shaped this historic landscape. Whether you’re passionate about Roman history or simply curious to learn more, the epigraphy of Aquae Flaviae opens a window to a bygone era, inviting you to explore the fascinating stories etched in stone.

Beautiful bridge in a Beautiful town. Known to be the first roman bridge in Portugal.

It was a quiet sleepy little town, yet charming and quaint with an old world, nostalgic feel as though time has stood still. The old town maintains its stalwart character retaining the numerous traces of those who have passed through since ancient times.

Very important place since the Roman times. A huge step in the Portugal begging. Such a BEAUTIFULL place. That even today crossing the bridge you can't be indifferent to such beauty, calm and amazing unique place. It brings you back to the beggings of times

Pleanty to offer, from amazing food and its traditions, to a nice relaxing walks on the parks and old streets or by the river with traditional shops and a termal area/baths to heal and give you energy. A very nice alternative and atmosphere to big cities and a tadte of true Portugal and its people.

If you like bridges...

Chaves is a delightful spa town with many historical buildings and plenty of hotels and restaurants.

Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil Monastery is a small but well-preserved site in the Ribeira Sacra. While it could be better maintained, the surroundings and the breathtaking views from the viewpoints make the visit worthwhile. It’s a place with great tourism potential that could be further enhanced.

Lovely ancient(dating from the 13th century) monastery , located in the beautiful picturesque canyon. It's possible to get a bus down to it, and I would recommend this, unless you're very fit. The pathway through the woods is very uneven and rugged and is approx 1.6 kms long. It's the journey back uphill will test you severely. Bring plenty of water, boots, and a walking pole. €2 entry fee for some reason.

The place itself is really small and not so much to see. You finish it in 5-10 minutes so maybe is not worth it. The road leading to this place maybe is, beautiful sights and winding down the mountain. Quite charming. The ticket is 2€ and you can pay by card. The lady there speaks perfect French.

Spectacular located little 12th century monastery. Stunning views and incredibly original stone masonry. Marvellous views from high above the beautiful Sil valley. Surrounded by centuries old chestnut trees.

Beautiful and well maintained, hidden gem of history, snuggled away in the forest.

Beautiful place! Love the architecture and location is amazing by the river and many lookouts around to enjoy views!

Cool stop on the circular hike from Parada de Sil. 2euro entry. Not much to see but a lot to think about in such an historical place.

This place is breathtaking. Views of the Sil Canyon will blow you away! Easy 5 minute walk from car park next to football field.

Beautiful views!! The miradoiro is nicely done and you have a perfect structure to enjoy the view. You have to walk a few meters but it's very easy

If you are in the area, definitely take some time to walk around and visit this viewpoint – it’s absolutely worth it! The view is truly breathtaking, stretching out across the landscape in a way that makes you want to just stand still and take it all in. We ended up spending about 30 minutes here, simply admiring and enjoying the scenery, and it honestly felt like time well spent. The atmosphere is peaceful and calming, making it a perfect stop to pause, relax, and appreciate the natural beauty around you. Whether you’re taking photos or just enjoying the moment, this viewpoint is a highlight that shouldn’t be missed when visiting the region.

Great recreation area with beautiful walks, trails for bikes, plenty of parking and breath-taking views of the Sil canyon.

Great views of the cannon of the Sil River.

Great view point overlooking the River Sil in Galicia, Spain. Easy, flat walk from nearby parking area.

Overrated viewpoint. Easy access by car but better to look at the mountain than the river. Beautiful because everything is in this region but I wouldn't stop here without also hiking down to the monastery.

Castle isn't a parador anymore, the parador is 100 yards down the hill. The parador is very nice with excellent views. The castle is a little rundown but great view from top of the keep

it's an interesting experience to stay in a castle, nice views. It wasn't the most comfortable staying for us - we had problems with temperature regulations in the room, the system just didn't work and it was always 24-24.5 C which was too hot for us. The restaurant was good - we had pulpo and rice with something.

We’ve visited this hidden gem of the Galician culture with a group of friends from the United States and Argentina, we loved it! In addition to the amazing views of The Valley of Tamega, the Romanic church, the fortress tower and the palace are must visit! Lucia has been an outstanding and nice guide with us, moitas gracias!

Beautiful parador in a very old castle tastefully renovated with all qthe amenities of a modern hotel. Nice restaurant with the standard menu of paradores in Galicia. The cafeteria has a beautiful and quiet garden. Staff are really nice and attentive

Great building in a very nice location, great communications thanks to the nearby highway which links galicia with the capital Madrid. The historic building is adequately reformed and improved. The views are impressive.

The pace was a kinda closed when I got there. But I still had time to go up on the stairs to the main tower. the view is just incredible and the history about the place is such a good thing to hear. I recommend that.

Another one of Spain's wonderful Paradors. This one has breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, vineyards and villages. As with all Paradors, it's not the cheapest form of accommodation, but has that magical ambience of sleeping in a castle.

The Azibo is a perfect day out on a hot summer's day. The water is clear and fresh. There are places to buy food, ice cream and cold drinks. If you get there early enough you can find a nice shady spot to sit and relax. Super family friendly.

Beautiful place to take the family and have a rest. Nice water and many activities. In spring or summer its a perfect afternoon stop.

Ein sehr schöner Stausee zum entspannen😉❤ gut zum Wandern und Baden. Hunde sind an den angelegten Strand nicht erlaubt, was aber auch normal ist. Toiletten, Duschen diverse Cafe's alles Vorort. (Translated by Google) A very nice reservoir to relax😉❤ good for hiking and swimming. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, but that is normal. Toilets, showers, various cafes, all on site.

Fantastic place to vacation in. Beautiful mountain scenery, beaches, great local restaurants, everything is cheap including lodging. You also have great mountain biking and motocross trails.

➕️schöner Ort zum Entspannen mit top Wasserqualität; breit ausgebaute Sandstrände und Spielplätze für die Kids; Toiletten gut zugänglich und sauber; Parkplätze verfügbar ➖️momentan niedriger Wasserstand wg. extremer Hitze und mangelndem Regen, deshalb viele Algen im Badebereich sowie Schlamm; Tretboot-Verleih ziemlich teuer; Snack-Bar hatte kaum noch Auswahl (Translated by Google) ➕️beautiful place to relax with top water quality; wide sandy beaches and playgrounds for the kids; toilets easily accessible and clean; Parking available ➖️currently low water level due to extreme heat and lack of rain, therefore lots of algae in the bathing area as well as mud; Pedal boat rental quite expensive; Snack bar had hardly any selection

Wunderschöner Stausee mit Badestrand. Viele Wanderwege in die Berge. Rundweg um den Stausee knapp 27 Kilometer. ***** (Translated by Google) Beautiful reservoir with a swimming beach. Many hiking trails in the mountains. Circular route around the reservoir, almost 27 kilometers. *****

Really nice hike around the lake.

A gorgeous, well kept/managed space with several easily accessible beaches, picnicking areas, boating, dining and hiking trails. A heavenly spot!! Spend a few hours or an entire day -- a must go!!

Nice beach, good place to spend the day.

A relaxing experience around the castle walls gives great views for miles. There is an artisan shop here and you can buy food and drink. This is not a really good place for the disabled because the paths and roads are quite uneven.

🏰 A Stone Chronicle Above the City ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) I visited Castelo de Bragança in June 2025, and it immediately felt like stepping through a portal in time. Rising above the town on a hilltop, this 12th-century fortress commands one of the most breathtaking panoramas in northern Portugal. Its granite towers and thick walls seem untouched by the centuries — silent witnesses to medieval battles, royal intrigues, and the deep roots of Portuguese identity. Walking through the gates, I could almost hear echoes of armored footsteps. Inside, the Keep Tower (Torre de Menagem) stands tall and proud, housing a small but engaging Military Museum. Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, the view alone is worth the climb — the red roofs of Bragança spread out below like a painted canvas, framed by the Serra de Montesinho hills. The atmosphere was calm and respectful; only a handful of visitors, a soft wind, and the sound of swallows looping around the battlements. It’s one of those places that quietly stays with you — both grand and human at once. Practical Notes Bring water and a hat — shade is limited at the top. Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler light and better photos. Walking paths are cobbled; wear comfortable shoes. Quick Ratings Historical & Cultural Value: 10/10 Architecture & Preservation: 9.5/10 Accessibility: 8.5/10 📸 View & Photo Potential: 10/10 Atmosphere & Serenity: 9.5/10 📝 If this helped you imagine Bragança’s medieval soul, hit 👍 and follow me — I share real impressions from Europe’s most curious corners.

Lovely little museum charting Portugal's history over the last 600 years. Fantastic map of Portugal from the peninsular war era for Sharpe fans. All distances in miles! And the time to walk those miles. Loads of armaments through the ages on display. Adults 3 euros, seniors only 1 euro! The castle itself is free but if you want to go to the top of the keep, that's part of the museum. Lots of places where you could fall a long way if you're not careful eg walls without rails. It's great!

Bragança Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress, built in the 12th century, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding region. Its imposing Keep Tower and sturdy walls make it a must-visit historical site. Inside, you'll find the Military Museum, though it was closed for lunch when I visited. There are parking spaces nearby for small cars and motorcycles, with a lot located within the castle grounds, though it’s best to arrive early, especially in peak seasons. The exterior alone is worth the visit, making it an essential stop in Bragança.

A beautiful place to visit. Lots to see. It's very popular for motorhomes - they should charge to park. I would happily pay

The space isn’t huge, but it’s very cool. You can explore the walls that cover the entire area. There are a few small restaurants and some stores next to the castle, but unfortunately, they were closed on the day of my visit. There is a small museum inside the castle, but nothing particularly unique

One of the most beautiful castles I have visited. Small charge for adults and kids for free. Once through the entrance you basically are free to roam around the castle walls and also visit the museum which is housed inside the keep.

The Bragança is the military museum located within the Bragança Castle (or Citadel), in Portugal. Here's a summary of the key details: > Location: Bragança Castle, Portugal. > Attraction: Military museum with historical weapons exhibits. > Entry Fee: 3 euros. > * Additional Features: > * A church within the castle walls. > * Cafés and tea shops located outside the castle. > * Convenient parking, both inside and along the surrounding roads. > * Overall: A pleasant and informative visit, especially for those interested in history and military artifacts."

3 euros for adults, 1 for seniors. Money well spent.

This was an amazing museum as you could walk around the whole castle and rooms steeped in history

Absolutely worth a visit. For 3€ you can read about the different artifacts as well as climb up all the towers. Very well organized too, but you cannot take photos INSIDE the museum.

Please check the related comments done to the Castle of Bragança (in Spanish), because this Military Museum is located inside de Castle of Bragança. This castle is inside of an old walled village, at the top of a hill, where remains the catle, a church, and different houses (that the majority just now are pubs or restaurants). The overview is nice, an also a romanic building (Domus Municipalis) and the Mozarabic church, with Baroque additions).

Inside the castle itself located the main tower, plenty of sreep steps to climb, first up to the museum then more Inside as the displays are over three floors. You are not allowed to take photos in museum.

An uncritical commemoration of military exploits, rich in swords, machine guns, and colonial loot, which would indeed have gone down very well in the Portugal of 1940.

Amazing place but no toilet; you can piss by the tree near the wooden house

Awesome experience. Quite peaceful and great views. The boat trip along the lake was funny and useful. I strongly recommend it.

Fantastic find on the national park several good restaurants picnic areas swimming very popular

It feels better than being at the beach. No salty air. No need to have a shower afterwards. But it still has all the other aspects of a seaside beach. Oh and there's lots of fish swimming around you, which you can see because the water is clear enough.

It is a beautiful place for a swim, mess about in boats or just relax. There is a boat hire place for canoes, kayaks and pedalos and a lovely bar and restaurant, El Pato, just a short walk along the beach.

Nice walking area quiet and tranquil

Crystal clear lake waters, on a well taken care nature reserve.

Just passed by there.

(Translated by Google) In a very beautiful town, its houses are very preserved, colorful, balconies with flowers of different colors. In the town you can eat very well and at a good price, there are also different souvenir shops in case you want to take something with you. A visit to the castle is essential. (Original) En un pueblo muy hermoso, sus casas están muy conservadas, coloridas, balcones con flores de diferentes colores. En el pueblo se come muy bien y a buen precio , también hay diferentes tiendas de souvenirs por si quieren llevarse algún detalle. La visita al castillo es imprescindible.

(Translated by Google) It is a well-preserved and restored historic center with streets and houses, some of them hundreds of years old, through which you can take a leisurely stroll since vehicle traffic is not particularly dense. It is advisable to park in the lower part of the town since it is limited in the historic center. (Original) Es un casco histórico en conjunto bien conservado y restaurado con calles y casas de hace cientos de años algunas de ellas y por las que se puede dar un paseo tranquilamente ya que la circulación de vehículos no es particularmente densa. Es aconsejable aparcar en la parte baja de la localidad ya que en el casco histórico está limitado.

(Translated by Google) Very well preserved, spectacular views (Original) Muy bien conservado, vistas expectaculares

(Translated by Google) It is worth a quiet visit (Original) Merece la pena una visita tranquila

(Translated by Google) It's a spectacular historical site. We'll definitely be back. (Original) Es un conjunto histórico espectacular. Volveremos sin duda alguna.

(Translated by Google) Historic site of Puebla de Sanabria. A must-see once in your life. Very beautiful and interesting. (Original) Conjunto histórico de Puebla de Sanabria. Hay que visitarlo una vez en la vida. Muy bonito e interesante.

Ridiculous hours designed for the convenience of the guards, not the tourists. The place is closed during the afternoon and open in the evening. Who is going to drive 30 min in the middle of nowhere at night?

Very amazing place to visit. The last restants of visigothic influences. This is something that you have to see. It is lying in a beautiful place of Spain.

beautiful unfortunately closed at opening times. it did have a telephone number to call but it didn’t say anything. still worth checking it out if you’re in the way. plenty of parking

Excellent carving. Decorated stones in museum nearby

One of the oldest church in Spain if not the oldest,worth a visit.

Beautiful church

San Pedro de la Nave, not far from Zamora, is a very early flower; the spring that will make the Romanesque bloom, all around, will come only three centuries later. But here it is already...

So I don't want to give it a one star because it's not the Lagoon's fault that it was completely dried up when we visited. The buildings and ruins were very neat and well maintained. We had come to visit because of a book listing it under 1001 natural wonders to see and we're disappointed that the lagoon was missing and wasn't drawing all the birds that it usually does. Maybe next time!

Went there to see the Great bustard and yes 14 on a field near the road. Also a few other species. Missing a bit of visitor info in English.

It is great. The guys in La Casa del Parque are incredibly helpful and willing to help. The paths through the whole area and the observation cabins are very well kept. We got to see lots of different birds. I highly recommend it.

Very disappointed 🙁 Can't give even one star. Dogs are not permitted, some part of our family was left behind with dog. It's not a lagun it's a puddle with rubbish all over the place.

Great birding area at the center of the Iberian Peninsula. In winter there are thousands of Geese including Pink-footed Geese and maybe other species as well. The surrounding dryland areas are home of some specialities such as the Great Bustard (biggest population of the peninsula) or the Black-bellied Sandgrouse among others. It is easily combined with a visit to other nearby birding spots suxh as the Laguna de la Nava.

Great visit for birdwatching either in summer or winter with close views of great Bustards and wetland birds

excellent place to observe and photograph birs not only in the winter but through the year

Worth the tour We enjoyed a free entrance on Saturday to both the Iglesia the museum but also to cloister

Amazing! I found it as beautiful if not even more impressive than León Cathedral. Go to the rooms beyond the church main room. It is spectacular. Friendly staff, great atmosphere.

Lovely place to visit. I initially thought that was an entrance fee for it but it is free. Don’t miss the cloister, very beautiful! Definitely worth the visit. Make sure you check hours as they close on the afternoons.

Large open plaza with fountains set in the ground. A lovely place to sit near the river surrounded by some very old and historic building. Entrance fee charged to go in the museum (of Leon)

It's a part of the museum of León and the entrance is free. Convent was built in XVI century. Museum's part has a lot of objects of middle age and baroque. And another part is a hotel now.

The renovation of the building is more than you can expect. It includes a Museo de León exhibition in religious topics. The Iglesia is on the Way of Santiago (El Camino), so you can wonder the building in any time. Perfect place with the amazing and great square to have a rest and get dozens of experiences about León and its past and present.

Impressive building with great detail of work out in to arches, doors and borders of facade, must visit inside of the convent as it's not only free but also give you highlights of 3rd century old Stones and tombs.

If you’re a Gaudí lover, don’t miss Casa Botines in León! I visited it today and was so pleased. The audio guide unveils so many fascinating details about the house, Gaudí’s life, and the hidden symbolism woven into the building’s design. The beautifully reconstructed rooms offer a glimpse into how the spaces would have looked in Gaudí’s time. A section allows to delve into Gaudí’s creative mind, his deep connection to nature, geometry, and meaning, making the experience even more special. On the third floor, a rich art collection awaits, with highlights being Dalí’s Divine Comedy illustrations and Goya’s Caprichos. An inspiring and beautifully curated visit, highly recommended to anyone intrigued by Gaudí’s world beyond Barcelona!

Lovely Gaudi building. The building process documented on interesting display boards in Spanish and English. The highlight for us was the Goya etchings, the Los Caprichos, on the 3rd floor. A look into the mind of a genius artist.

One of only three Gaudi buildings outside of Barcelona, Casa Botines is perhaps Gaudi's most conservative structure. That said it is still wild in its irregular beauty.

The building is very nice, but the museum part is very plain. Maybe it is because I am a foreigner, but I couldn't watch and analyze too long some modern arts and old house parts, just like the bathroom. There are 3 levels, and there are rooms where just posters about the architecture and methods. I don't regret this 9 euro, but I thought it would be something amazing (according to the lot of good reviews).

Great modernist building in Leon 🔝 Casa Botines is one of the three projects outside Barcelona by Antoni Gaudi. When in Leon don’t miss it ! Highly recommended ! Camino de Santiago ( 21 apr - day 18 ) Visited April 2025

Casa Botines is a must-visit landmark in León, especially for those interested in architecture, history, or the works of Antoni Gaudí. One of only a few Gaudí buildings located outside of Catalonia, Casa Botines stands out with its neo-Gothic façade, pointed towers, and striking stonework—resembling more a medieval castle than a city building. The museum inside offers a well-curated experience that combines art, architecture, and history. Visitors can learn about Gaudí’s vision, the building’s origins as a textile warehouse and bank, and its later restoration. The exhibition includes original sketches, furniture, and informative displays in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to international visitors. There are also temporary exhibitions and a small but interesting art collection on the upper floors. A highlight is the chance to see some of the original architectural elements up close, as well as the preserved office spaces that transport you back in time. The building is also beautifully lit in the evening and worth viewing from the outside, even after hours. Casa Botines isn’t just for architecture enthusiasts—it’s a key piece of León’s cultural heritage and a great stop for anyone wanting to appreciate Gaudí’s lesser-known but equally impressive work.

Stunning building by Gaudi, it’s not as decorated as those building in Barcelona, with those details display in English as well, help us to be more enjoyable to know about stories behind this place!

This is the museum with the magnificent Romanesque fresco - all original dating back to the 11th C. They have free tours on some evenings, which I was lucky enough to be able to join by chance - it was in Spanish but the guide was kind enough to give explanations in English just for me. So why the four stars and not five? Simply because they do not allow photography in the fresco section. I specifically visited Leon to photograph this fresco so I was very disappointed that it wasn't made clear on their website that this is the case. May be they did mention it in Spanish. It is definitely worth a visit, even just to look at the fresco.

Some interesting sights but it didnt float my boat hugely. [Maybe in part because the previous day we visited the collection a the cathedral, which was very striking.] Limited photography (even without flash). I can understand them not wanting the valuable precious metal and jeweled treasures being photographed, but the restrictions sem unduly onerous.

Beautiful Romanesque frescoes, they call it the Sistine of Spain

Fascinating place with excellent information.

(Translated by Google) One of the places I wanted to visit in León. The Sistine Chapel of León is essential, fantastic. Seeing and being in a place with so much history leaves you stunned, I haven't stopped enjoying those frescoes. (Original) Uno de los lugares que quería visitar en León. Imprescindible, fantástico la capilla sixtina de León. Ver y estar en un sitio con tanta historia te deja anonadado, no he parado de disfrutar de esos frescos.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful. It is located to the right of the Church of San Isidoro. There are guided tours, although you can also enter on your own. (Original) Muy bonito. Está situado a la derecha de la Iglesia de san Isidoro. Hay visitas guiadas, aunque también se puede entrar por libre

(Translated by Google) A must-see in León. One of those places that surprises and fascinates you. (Original) Visita obligada en León. De esos sitios que te sorprenden y fascinan.

The Leon Cathedral is a tremendous landmark that helps take Camino de Santiago pilgrims back in time to imagine what the area would have been like 800 years ago when this cathedral was built. The area around the cathedral is spacious and offers a sense of relaxation while having coffee or a meal .

The cathedral is so beautiful The visit is nice and it is worth the price The audio guide is clearly not good enough. It is only 5 very long recording. Would be good to inspire from Oviedo

Fabulous church inside and out. Stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings are amazing. Tickets are not cheap but do not mind paying as it goes to the upkeep of this amazing cathedral. Loved that we take photos of the inside to keep our memories fresh of the glorious interior. No restrooms available.

Wow, wow, wow. The stained glass and scale is striking. I'm not sure we could build this now. There is no reduced entrance for pilgrims, which is unusual, but the visit worth the €7. The audio-tour was cool as well. Just the right amount of detail and explanation of points of interest for my sore feet.

Breathtakingly beautiful! Around £5 to get in, which I think is a steal!!! There is a little cafe on the corner to the right which has the loveliest staff! Go there…. Not the ones opposite the church itself!

Its just Wow! When you are inside that building and you see those stained glass windows… your jaw will drop to the ground!

This is an architectural gem. Well worth visiting. They have audio in several languages and it’s a self guided tour.

An incredible, unforgettable experience! Huge halls, impressive stalactites. You can literally see a million years of history. It’s breathtaking!

A very beautiful cave to visit! We booked the more expensive tour for 18 euros which began at 920am. It was nice because there were like <15 of us with a guide who took us through the cave first in darkness then they switched on the lights. I highly recommend it although the guide was speaking in Spanish but we had a friend who helped to translate it for us. The cave is quite large, with several Chambers to see. I highly recommend it!

Was an amazing tour, exploring the depths of the underground wonders of the earth. We were accompanied with a very friendly guide who was able to translate in English for me. A truly spectacular experience.

Great day out with the children!! The surrounding area is beautiful with a restaurant a children play area and a picnic area. Also there is a walking route outside the cave. The cave itself is amazing. But be prepared it's cold insite😬. 🇪🇸🦁

The friendliest people at the pay window and our guide was amazing, funny and answered all our questions. Luckily we were a group of only 5 so we were able to go inside without light and when out guide turned on the light we all gasped. The caves are just WOW! Outside you can park wonderfully and there are picnic tables everywhere to eat while you wait to enter the cave.

We told the children (to entice them) that the dinosaurs lived there. I recommend you to come until 16:00. So you can make the tour.

Fantastic cave with huge rooms with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, lakes and waterfalls. The guide, "Cuevas", was very helpful and funny, too.

Nice place to visit

Nature with a human touch

Ok

Ok

Ok

A picturesque surprise.

Its a must

Castle is open 12pm till 2pm. Only the ground floor is accessible but there are lots of interesting and varied things on display. Worth a visit

Good for a short visit. Nice panorama!

Visited in the summer. The guides are lovely and very informative. A hidden treasure!

Found this one by accident but worth a visit. Interesting. Not sure about entery

Restored castle worth visiting.

Original

Expectacular

The gothic Cathedral Basilica of Saint Antoninus, dedicated to Saint Antonius of Pampers, is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe (130m x 42m high x 50m wide) similar in size to Cathedral of Reims, and Notre Dame de Paris. It is generally known as “the unknown beauty" because it is not as well known as other Spanish cathedrals, though it has works of art of great value, including a fabulous El Greco: the martyrdom of St. Sebastian from 1579. A curiosity are the stork nests on the tower, so you are constantly followed by the characteristic noisy bill-clattering, which appears to be distant machine gun fire.

Very impressive and interesting cathedral! Entry is 6 Euros but it is definitely worth it. Being Spain's 3rd biggest cathedral, it offers countless chapels with richly decorated altairs, several choirs, two big naves, a transept and catacombs. The condition is surprisingly good due to excellent maintenance.

Very nice building It is worth to look at it from different angles We didn't go in, but situated next to the university and yet in a quiet and peaceful area

Despite the ghastly bling bling in the side chapels and altar this is a rather lovely building. The choir is magnificent on the outside and the organ is fantastic. Great stonework throughout. The small gallery of artwork is well worth a visit, some nice works including a rather homoerotic San Sebastian by El Greco which could have been painted this century.

We enjoyed the guided tour at noon. The guide was very competent and spoke in a clear Spanish. Even if you do not speak Spanish most visitors will enjoy the tour.

Look Up! Marvel the magnificent gargoyles! And don’t forget to photograph the photographer and see the Aliens Xenomorphs!!!!

A really unexpected surprise in Palencia. The province being the realm of the Romanesque, I expected its cathedral to be this style, too. Instead, we came across a fantastic Gothic temple which, unfortunately, we could not visit because it was being restored. We at least enjoyed the awesome exterior.

Impressive sculpture of Victorio Macho with 21 meters high. You can visit the interpretation center for free but check the schedule since it's not open every day.

It is said that the statue of Christ is the second largest . But the sculpting was not pleasing. A new museum has been set up on the history. It is located on a hallock. Nice physical work out. Can reach via private vehicle and then take a walk. A good view to the neighboring settlements

Great views right outside the old town. Peaceful and quiet

It was totally worth going up to see el Cristo. Awesome vibes and views. Museum wasn’t open but it was still worth going.

Amazing place, quite with excellent view of Palencia

Really should not allow cars up. But fantastic view when up there and stunning statue

Really close to Palència, worth a visit.

the Medieval Death Star.

(Translated by Google) A very, very interesting visit to Covarrubias. It's a very well-restored site, and it's admirable that a private foundation is preserving this important milestone in our history. Excellent audio commentary that clearly explains the visit. Currently, there's a curious exhibition of siege weapons, the likes of which I don't think there's anywhere else like it in Spain. If you're lucky enough to chat with the owners, they'll explain many details and answer your questions with great knowledge and kindness. Don't miss it! And the kids love it. (Original) Visita muy, muy interesante en Covarrubias. Muy buena restauración, siendo admirable que sea una fundación privada quien preserve este importante hito de nuestra historia. Muy buenos comentarios en audio, que te van explicando claramente la visita. Actualmente hay una curiosa exposición de armas de asedio como no creo haya otra igual en España. Si además teneis la suerte de charlar un rato con los dueños, os explicaran muchos detalles y responderán a vuestras preguntas con gran conocimiento y amabilidad ¡No os la perdáis! Y a los niños les encanta.

(Translated by Google) I was at a mystery workshop this weekend. I can only thank Millán and Paloma so much for letting us in and use the tower, and for being so incredible. They treated us like family. Of the tower, a spectacular building that has aged beautifully thanks to its owners. Don't hesitate to go, go inside, and let Millán take you on a guided tour that will transport you back centuries. Thank you for giving me such a beautiful and unforgettable memory. I will definitely visit you again. (Original) Estuve en unas jornadas del misterio este fin de semana. Sólo puedo dar millones de gracias a Millán y a Paloma por dejarnos entrar y disponer del torreón y por ser tan increíbles como son. Nos trataron como si fuéramos de su propia familia. Del torreón, espectacular construcción que ha envejecido de una manera excelente gracias a sus dueños. No dudéis en ir, entrar y dejaos llevar por la visita guiada de Millán que os transportará siglos atrás.. Gracias por hacerme vivir un recuerdo tan bonito e inolvidable. Volveré a haceros alguna visita sin lugar a dudas.

(Translated by Google) A very good visit. It's of historical, cultural, and military interest. The attentive reception and detailed explanations ensure you don't miss a single detail of the visit. 100% recommended. (Original) Una visita muy buena. Interés histórico-cultural-militar. Además, la atenta recepción y la explicación pormenorizada ayudan a no perderte un detalle de la visita. Recomendable 100%.

(Translated by Google) An incredible visit, highly recommended. The Fernán González Tower is one of those places that surprises you. It's impressive from the outside due to its robust shape, but the best part is inside: a beautifully curated exhibition on medieval weapons and the history of the area. The guide was excellent; you could tell he was passionate about what he did and shared a ton of interesting facts that aren't covered in books. Plus, the entire Covarrubias area is beautiful, ideal for spending the day strolling and discovering charming corners. If you like history or just fancy a unique getaway, this place is a surefire option. (Original) Una visita increíble, totalmente recomendable. El Torreón de Fernán González es uno de esos sitios que te sorprenden. Impresiona desde fuera por su forma tan robusta, pero lo mejor está dentro: una exposición muy bien montada sobre armas medievales y la historia de la zona. El guía fue excelente, se notaba que le apasiona lo que hace y te transmite un montón de curiosidades que no vienen en los libros. Además, todo el entorno de Covarrubias es precioso, ideal para pasar el día paseando y descubriendo rincones con mucho encanto. Si te gusta la historia o simplemente te apetece hacer una escapada diferente, este lugar no falla.

(Translated by Google) It was an interesting and very informative visit. We weren't able to take the guided tour because it requires a minimum of six people, so there were four of us. However, they still gave us a very comprehensive and highly recommended historical talk about the Tower, the siege weapons inside, and the history of the town and surrounding area. They even gave a demonstration with one of the weapons on display. I recommend a visit because once you're in the town, a little history and the reason for its existence are always welcome. (Original) Fue una visita interesante y muy instructiva. No pudimos hacer la visita guiada porque tiene que ser un mínimo de 6 personas y fuimos 4. Pero aun así, nos dieron una muy completa y aconsejable charla histórica del Torreón así como de las armas de asedio que en él hay y de la historia del pueblo y alrededores. Incluso hicieron una demostración con una de las armas que tienen expuestas. Recomiendo su visita porque una vez que estás en el pueblo, no viene mal un poco de historia y del por qué de su existencia.

(Translated by Google) In my opinion, it's not worth buying the tickets. The exhibition is very, very small. The guide doesn't offer any interesting information that you couldn't find online beforehand. The woman at the entrance "sold" us a much more comprehensive tour than what we actually saw. The guide was a bit abrupt. The visit isn't worth the money. (Original) A mí juicio no merece la pena comprar las entradas. Una exposición muy muy pequeña. La guía no ofrece ninguna información interesante que no puedas encontrar previamente en internet. La señora de la entrada nos "vendió" una visita mucho más amplia que lo que después vimos. El guía un poco brusco. No vale dinero la visita.

Very interesting piece of architecture / engineering. Pretty iconic in Bilbao. We went on the hanging gondola, but you can get the lift up to the top and walk across. Apparently this was in the original design but wasn't added until much later

An interesting architecture bridge with a hanging gondola. If you have few hours to spare while in Bilbao. Recommend to take a train or metro to Portugalete and visit the site. Take the chance and go up the elevator and cross by foot on the top wooden platform, excelente views.

The bridge spans the estuary of the Ría de Bilbao where it meets the sea, in the province of Biscay (Basque Country), northern Spain. It connects the towns of Portugalete and Getxo. The Bizkaia Bridge is the world’s first metal-structure transporter bridge (also called a ferry-bridge), where a gondola (platform) carries vehicles and pedestrians across the river beneath a high span. Designed by engineer Alberto Palacio (with assistance from Ferdinand Arnodin) and inaugurated on 28 July 1893. It is considered a landmark of industrial-era iron architecture and engineering.

Crossing is very affordable at 0.55€ each, getting the lift to walk on the top is 10€ each. The views from the top are amazing, plus very high, with gaps in the wooden boards as you walk, can be a bit scary. Also when the hanging platform crosses its rocks the upper platform!

Visited while on a cruise 45 minute walk on flat ground that's nice to look around The bridge is fascinating, the gondola carrys foot passengers and 3 cars and the lift carrys about 6 people The views are stunning it's closed in so safe with kids If we go to Gexto we would do the bridge again

Really interesting piece of infrastructure if you’re into that thing. It’s only €0.55 to cross on the gondola, you can pay about €8 to walk across along the top but I couldn’t convince my friends to do it with me.

Impressive World Heritage site on the Nervión – Vizcaya Bridge During our stay in Bilbao, we took the city train from the city center (San Mamés) to Portugalete. After a smooth 20-minute ride and a short 5-minute walk, we arrived at the impressive Vizcaya Bridge. This unique construction – a UNESCO World Heritage site – stands 45 meters tall and connects both riverbanks via a suspended gondola. For less than one euro, you can buy a ticket on-site and cross the river in just a few moments – a short but fascinating experience! For a more spectacular view, you can take the lift to the top of the bridge. From there, you can walk across the upper platform and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the river, the city, and the port area. Tickets for this experience cost €10 and are available at the small shop at the foot of the bridge. An impressive blend of engineering and history – definitely worth a visit! – Ivan

Under renovation, the exhibition is limited, but it is free to enter. Apart from a whole section filled with inflated plastic which is unexplained and hazardous to elderly visitors, there are some interesting works and a few masterpieces. A good place to come on a rainy day. Not suitable for children or people who need accessible space. After renovation this will probably change and the experience will be better.

A gem in Bilbao. The Museum of Fine Arts offers a beautifully curated exposition—rich, balanced, and quietly captivating. The galleries flow like chapters in an art book, with works that invite you to pause, breathe, and really look. A refined, elegant space that celebrates art without overwhelming. A wonderful visit. P.s. was inspired to be a bit silly 🤭

In June 2025 the museum was undergoing substantial building work. As a result, only part of the collection was on display. But entry was free, instead of 7 Euros, during the building work. Part of the available display space was taken up with modern art consisting of enormous inflated balloons, each one occupying a whole room. From my point of view this was a waste of the limited available space. However the five rooms devoted to classical paintings, including El Greco and his contemporaries, were very interesting.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Bilbao is a nice, smaller museum. The collection wasn’t too impressive, and one installation spread across many rooms felt confusing. That said, the visit is pleasant and can be done in about an hour. Good option if you’re looking for something quieter than the Guggenheim.

Currently under renovation. There are two temporary exhibitions. It can be a quick visit. I've seen some of its collections when I was visiting other fine art museums in Spain, so I know it has potential.

Its under major renovation but still has a small area open for free, some great works by el greco and goya, also some interesting temporary audio visual exhibition linking flamenco with the geography and psychology of 9 inhabitants as they walk the streets of Sevilla.

Free, but the collection is limited. Still a very nice place to drop by, I liked the 16th century Bilbao, and the exhibition in the 1st floor!

Highlight of our cruise to Spain and Portugal was a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. The structure is iconic in itself, made of titanium sheets laid over a free-form pattern. The inner structure is just as amazing in design. Housed within, are notable creations of contemporary art. The large oil painting in black, with a small corner left natural, the work of Robert Motherwell. The labyrinth of huge steel sheets, coiled, eager to welcome curious visitors. I came away wondering, ‘what is art?’ Be sure to enlarge the paper cut-out collage. There are some worthy quotations to remember. A very reasonable 9 euros entrance fee. Great gift shop for a memento. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.

Absolutely loved the Guggenheim Bilbao! The architecture alone is breathtaking — you could spend an hour just walking around the building and taking in the curves, reflections, and the river views. Inside, the exhibitions are beautifully curated, modern, bold, and inspiring. Every room feels like a new experience; the whole visit felt smooth and welcoming. A must-see in Bilbao — worth every minute!

Iconic showcase of art in a spectacular building. For someone who is not a big fan of art museums, I found this place very interesting and amusing. Every single room had a unique feature and I didn’t get bored even after spending 1.5hrs in here. A must-see in Bilbao! You can buy ticket online. I got there with 10 groups waiting in front of me to buy tickets so I just quickly bought it online and skipped the long queue. Only takes 2-3 mins max

We visited Friday, September 5, 2025. The building is beautiful. Unique and bold. Really stands out. We spent about 90 minutes here on a Friday afternoon. Well worth it if you are in the area. I loved the large exhibits.

It’s world-famous for a reason! I am in no way well-versed in art but I really enjoyed all 3 floors of the museum. I appreciated the variety of media, artists, eras, and kind of art featured here. I think what made it more fun was how interactive some of them are, and some exhibitions were also larger than life. It featured both big and rising, international and local names in the industry which was a great way to highlight other people in the industry. I appreciated how organized the museum was as well. There was a Yayoi Kusama exhibition, which would normally take forever to see but they planned it very well. It was a really quick few seconds to see it but this made the line go faster and didn’t hold up anyone who wanted to see it. The featured artist at that time was also very talented and fun to see! Lots of interactive and dynamic art featured that changed the experience for the viewer every room we visited. We also didn’t buy tickets ahead and I really thought we missed our chance, but the museum allotted tickets for walk-in visitors. The line went so fast as well which we appreciated a lot. So it was a very pleasant experience!!

The exterior of the museum is phenomenal, truly worth seeing with your own eyes. However, the exhibitions are a hit or miss. Perhaps I had unreasonably high expectations, which ultimately led to my disappointment. I have visited contemporary art museums with better exhibitions in the past, that's all I'm saying!!! The entrance fee is not expensive in all means. 6 euros with a student ID. I stayed here for a bit more than one hour.

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is an architectural and cultural masterpiece that offers an immersive experience in contemporary art, both for its iconic structure and for the works on display. The Guggenheim in Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, is considered one of the most revolutionary architectural works of the 20th century. Its titanium, glass and limestone structure, with curved and fluid shapes, almost looks like an urban sculpture. Visiting the museum is already an artistic experience in itself, even before entering. Inside, the museum houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, with works by artists such as Richard Serra, Anselm Kiefer, Cy Twombly, Mark Rothko, Louise Bourgeois and Yves Klein. Among the most famous installations is The Matter of Time by Serra, an immersive path through gigantic steel spirals B. Outside, two works have become symbols of the museum: • Puppy by Jeff Koons: a giant dog covered with fresh flowers. • Maman by Louise Bourgeois: a huge spider-shaped sculpture, powerful and disturbing. The Guggenheim is not just a museum, but a sensory and intellectual experience. It is a place where art dialogues with urban space, and where every corner invites reflection. As a visitor wrote: It's absolutely not true that it's only nice outside. The Guggenheim deserves as much on the outside as on the inside

The house red wine was good and the staff were friendly. However, the food left a lot to be desired. It was so salty and lacked flavour. Can pay by card or cash

Because no table was available I want to try the Pintxos for to-go. Waited to be served for five minutes. Then the waitress sent me to the other side of the counter, where I waited five minutes again. Then I left without any food. They are good at ignoring…

They are not service minded, they just let you wait on the table ignoring you. The waitress was also very rude, so if you want to be treated well please avoid this place.

Sooo many pintxo to choose from -so many vino tinto and not nearly enough time! Owner /bar was so helpful too. Easy to recommend this bar!

Awful attitude of the waiter outside. We had a very hostile welcome and were left to wait for a long time before we were able to get our drinks. Can't comment on the food - we asked if we could order food and the waiter walked away. At which point we decided it was time to leave. Avoid.

Food is genuinely awful. In a city with so much amazing food, do not waste a meal here! Come for a drink in a lovely setting if you must but the food quality is so poor at relatively expensive prices. For example patatas bravas arrives chunky chips and mayo, salted asparagus is cold, watery, mushy white asparagus out of a tin. The pintxos is old, crusty and very basic... They have a nice sounding menu but none of the dishes we wanted (such as velvet crab and grilled squid) were available. Other people around us were also disappointed. Just warning you!

Smaller selection of pintxos than others in the area and honestly what they had was just “OK”. Gave 3 stars instead of 2 due to location and the food wasn’t terrible. If this is the only table available in the plaza and you only want a seat and cold drink, maybe a snack you might be satisfied here. Also, there are many pictures in this review that I assume are from the place next door which I didn’t try but looked better than Urdina.

The museum was world class! We’ve been to winelands around the world and have never seen such an amazing presentation of wine history or collection of wine-related items ie: corkscrews, vessels, etc Book ahead for a tasting / museum package. The views and property are lovely. Tasting was OK experience. Shop had nice options.

Vivanco Museum is without the doubt the best wine museum in the world! Make sure that you reserve at least two-three hours to visit this spectacular place, as the amount of the items and the size of the exhibition are huge. Their wines from the Vivanco collection, including sparkling wines, are incredible!

I have visited it many years ago, it’s an amazing place: aesthetically pleasing, with various artifacts of art regarded to the wine production.

It is quite expensive (18 euros each) and exhibits do not come with English translation (I know I’m in Spain and i wouldn’t expect a local restaurant to have an English menu for instance. But for a museum targeting tourists, I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect) and the audio guide is really badly made - doesn’t move from one track to the other, so for every track you have to go back to the main menu. You also have to give them a bunch of information just to access the app and audio guide you are unlikely ever to use again. Otherwise a pretty nice museum and some interesting exhibits. The area around the museum is really scenic as well.

Good place to visit. The guided tour is very nice and the guide very knowledgeable. The cellar is worth it and very well designed. The restaurant food is very nice and the service just fantastic. The wines were not so good to me. But highly recommended visit nonetheless.

This museum is just amazing. It is best presentation of the entire process of assessing the land, preparing the soil, how the plants are cultivated and the history of diseases that impacted the European root stock. They over the process of pruning then the harvest and processing of the grapes. The video presentation are superb. The history of the wine presses is very well done.Then they cover all the steps in storing the wine in barrels and the details of barrel construction. Then there is the making of corks, bottling and shipping. They have the most extensive collection of cork screws. Then you are able to tour the active wine vine garden to see all the varietal grapes growing along side a large vineyard field. This place is a must and the learning experience is outstanding!

Visited without booking. Large free car park and extremely helpful staff who talk you through the proposed tour and wine tasting. Museum is 21 years old but is pristine The displays and exhibitions are first class taking 2-3 hours to take in all the information. The wine tasting provided a selection of two from 18 bottles which were different but most enjoyable. Well worth a stop in the heart of the Rijca 'Alto' region.

We visited many bodegas while in the Rioja region, and Bodegas Lecea was the highlight of our trip. We toured the caves with a glass of wine in hand. After visiting the caves we tasted a couple varieties in the tasting room. Then we went to the vineyards to see where the grapes are grown and had a delicious lunch amongst the vines. It was a wonderful experience that we will always remember!

We did an amazing tour of the winery in English. The value for money on the tour is astonishing : for just 25 euros you get to try 3/4 of their wines and a plate with cheese, picos and chorizo. The tour is really interesting and it’s really different from other winery tours in different reactions of Europe. The lady who took us around the winery was super nice and really funny. Would really recommend!

We did a tour and it was amazing from beginning to end! Our guide Carolina was awesome! She was very knowledgeable and funny, the tour never got boring! It was awesome to see the traditional ways of wine making, and walking around in the caves. The value for the price is exceptional! You get to try 3 wines plus some appetizers at the end!

One of the best winery experiences I’ve ever had! I recently completed my WSET Level 3 and wanted to explore Rioja and wow, this was the perfect winery to visit. We went on October 4 during the Fiesta del Pisado, and it was such a cool experience! We toured the cellars, learned how they produce their famous Corazón de Lago Rioja wine, and enjoyed a wonderful tasting. Afterwards, we even got to take part in the grape-treading process...actually stomping the grapes in the “lake” to help make the wine! The hospitality was incredible, and the food was excellent. The granddaughter was so kind and helpful and our tour guide was so knowledgeable. We loved every minute of our visit and, of course, the wine was outstanding. We bought several bottles to take home!!

Lecea winery is not just a winery ! It's a trip back in time, into traditions of wine making and life in the area of Rioja Alta! Lecea family stands proud in the footprints of their grandparents, working hard to maintain the tradition and offer a glimpse of the past to all of us passing their threshold! From the beginning till the end, our experience there was beautiful and warm and friendly! We arrived as tourists interested in the culture and winemaking of the area and we left as friends with a great desire for coming back! Lidia and her family are very warm and welcoming people. We joined a Spanish speaking tour, but Lidia took the time to explain everything in English, too and gave us great insights of the life, the winemaking and the traditions of the area. Thank you for a wonderful experience!

Amazing experience visiting the wine caves and having a picnic lunch in the vineyard. We were warmly welcomed by the Lecea family and had an amazing guide, Christina. Our entire family, including 2 younger daughters, really had a wonderful time. Would recommend the full experience(cave, wine tasting and picnic lunch) to anyone who visits!

I can highly recommend this bodega. We joined an English-speaking tour that lasted about 1.5 hours. What I really liked was that there were two wine tastings during the tour itself, perfectly paired with the explanations about viticulture – not just a quick tasting at the very end like in many other places. What also makes this bodega special is its history: at one point the town had around 300 underground cellars, but today this is the only one that still exists in its original form. Here it’s really all about tradition, history, and craftsmanship – and you can feel the authenticity throughout. Our guide was very friendly as well. Absolutely recommended!

We stayed at Hotel Marques de Riscal on 5/29/25 for 1 night when we explored Rioja. This hotel is definitely the highlight of the trip. As a platinum elite member, I was upgraded to a wonderful suite 330, with the terrace next to the vineyard and the spa. The location and the beauty of this hotel is amazing. Laguardia, Logrono and Haro are within 20-30 minute drive from Elciego so this hotel is a perfect base. The complementary breakfast and the winery tour are wonderful. Yahia is very friendly and helpful with our luggage. The front desk staff is amazing as well. We also enjoyed the dinner service at the restaurant. The hotel grounds reminded us of a mini Guggenheim at Bilbao, but with incredible views of the surrounding vineyards and village of Elciego in the background. The spa is clean, serene with sauna, steam bath, pool and lounge chairs overlooking the vineyard. Overall, this hotel hits it out of the park. Highly recommended.

The hotel was designed by the same architect as the Guggenheim in Bilbao — modern and comfy. Our room was spacious, and the bathroom was huge. The big downside for me was the food. We had both dinner and breakfast at the hotel. During dinner, the service was extremely slow, and the chocolate cake was very dry. Breakfast was no better — there were similar delays, and when the bagels and poached egg finally arrived, they were cold. Definitely not the Marriott Bombay experience you’d expect in this price range. On a brighter note, the spa is a true highlight. Treatments are carried out using Caudalie products, which added a touch of luxury to the experience.

The Hotel Marqués de Riscal is truly one of a kind. The architecture is stunning, but what really made this stay exceptional was the professionalism and warmth of the staff. Every interaction—from check-in to check-out—was handled with genuine care. Room service was flawless. Breakfast was a standout, especially thanks to Marta and Luz who delivered top-tier service every morning. At reception, Carlota deserves special recognition—professional, attentive, and clearly committed to making sure guests feel looked after. The spa was another highlight. I had the 80-minute facial and can honestly say it was the best I’ve ever had—absolute must if you’re staying here. Dining options on site were fantastic, and the wine tour was a real treat. Learning the deep history behind the Marqués de Riscal label gave me a new appreciation for the wines I’ve enjoyed for years. We also took a quick 25-minute drive to Logroño—well worth it. Ate at Bartolo there—outstanding meal. Bottom line: this wasn’t just a hotel stay. It was an experience. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

We had the Gehry menu with wine pairings at the restaurant as part of our 25th anniversary celebrations. The menu was lovely, but the highlight for both my wife and I was the pea soup with marrow which was beyond delicious. Honourable mention goes to the petite fours because it was presented so beautifully. The service, including the sommelier, was excelente, attentive and unobtrusive.

If you are looking for a 5 star hotel with a true 5 star experience look no further. My husband and I came here as part of our honeymoon in Spain and for me this hotel was up there right next to the Four Seasons in Madrid. Every person we interacted with - from the front desk/concierge, to the waiters in the wine bar, to the fabulous spa staff was beyond kind and really helped make our stay exceptional. The team contacted us prior to our stay to help us with any reservations and requests and that impeccable service carried throughout our visit. Some highlights for us were the scrub/massage treatments at the spa - Crina and Darlyn were fantastic! And Diego at the wine bar was very hospitable and so much fun to chat with. I also cannot say enough good things about the front desk/concierge, they made sure all of our requests were met! Yes, the hotel and the surrounding area are undoubtedly stunning but it’s really the people and team at this hotel that pushed the experience over the top for us! Hope to be back!

This hotel is incredible. The service. The settings. The various on property amenities like the spa. The staff was extremely attentive while not being pretentious.

A real architectural beauty by Gehry. The vineyard was so well organized. It was a great place to visit.